Post Workout Skincare

Exercise offers a variety of benefits, both physical and mental. From improving your cardiovascular health and building muscle to decreasing your cortisol levels and boosting confidence, working out brings on those feel-good endorphins that we all love. While you're crushing it in the gym, perfecting your yoga flows, or even hitting the trails for morning runs, you're going to work up a sweat. Sweat is an awesome indicator of the work you're putting in, but it can be brutal for your skin. Post workout skin care is crucial to avoid inflammation and acne episodes, each of which you definitely want to dodge! The good news is that it's pretty easy to develop your own post workout skincare routine that will keep your face nice and clear. Here are a few different tips that you can integrate into your regimen right after exercise.

As soon as you're finished exercising, it's important to not let that sweat linger too long. Sure, it may seem like it's just sweat, but more than likely there can be additional bacteria and dirt from the environment. If you exercise in a gym or studio, it's easy to pick up yucky germs along the way.

Keep your pores clog-free by cleansing right away. You can do this by taking a shower right when you get home. To counter inflammation, try bathing in lukewarm water. While it's okay to wash your face in the shower, it's even better to cleanse it separately once you're finished showering. Choose a salicylic acid cleanser or other gentle cleanser with cold water. Since your pores are dilated with sweat, harsh scrubs can cause micro-abrasions, which are bad for your overall skin health.

While it might be totally foreign to do so, it's recommended by dermatologists that you don't wear makeup while exercising. It can be a deadly combo when sweat comes into play with makeup and dirt, clogging your pores and inviting acne breakouts on your skin. Without makeup, your skin will be able to breath much easier and cleansing afterwards will be quick and easy. You might feel like you need to use SOMETHING, in which case you can use a very lightweight concealer or foundation.

After washing your face, it's important to moisturize your skin to keep it calm and clear. Look for a water-based moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. If you have oily skin, you don't want a formula designed for people with dry skin! This will keep inflammation and blemishes at bay, so you can look your best 24/7.

When you're at the gym, studio, or wherever else you like to exercise, there are a few ways to keep your skin happy until you get home for a more in-depth cleanse. If you can, splash cold water on your face directly after your workout. This will help wash away dirt and oils. If you aren't comfortable doing this, you can also bring toner pads or wipes in your bag. Find an option with salicylic acid, as this will help keep oil production in check. Use toner pads or wipes on your face as well as other areas of your body like your neck, check, and back. We know breakouts can happen in these other bodily regions, too, so keep them clog-free by preparing ahead of time.

It's easy to create a post workout skincare routine that suits your skin type. Taking an extra few minutes will have a huge impact on the health of your skin. If you seem to struggle with blemishes, this may cut down on the frequency since your skin won't be bogged down after exercise. Think of this like post workout nutrition. You may love having that creamy protein shake after hitting the gym to replenish your body, so nourish your skin in the same way by keeping it cleansed!